Pierce County has adopted a density driven model for land division. 'Density' means the number of families, individuals, dwelling units, or housing structures per unit of land. Each parcel of land is assigned a zone, which in turn has a specific density allowed. The density allowance is multiplied by the net developable acreage of the site, which then equals the number of lots you can create through a subdivision. Tables that provide zoning and use information for each area of the County are located in Title 18A, Development Regulations - Zoning.

"Short subdivision" or "short plat" means the division or redivision of land into nine or fewer lots, tracts, parcels, sites, or divisions within an urban growth area, or four or fewer lots, tracts, parcels, sites, or divisions outside an urban growth area, for the purpose of sale, lease, or transfer of ownership. A tract created for the purpose of accommodating critical areas or infrastructure, and otherwise deemed unbuildable for a dwelling unit, shall be allowed above and beyond the nine lot limitation prescribed above. Please keep in mind that all contiguous land in the same ownership shall be included in the short plat.